The Army and Air Force Exchange will continue the ÒBecause of YouÓ program with several contests in 2016, expanding it to also honor family members of the military. (Photo by Christine Cabalo, Oahu Publications)

Army and Air Force Exchange ServiceNews Release
DALLAS — Throughout 2016, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service will continue its “Because of You” program, expanding it to honor not only service members but also their families.

“Military families deal with unique challenges, including stress from deployments and frequent moves,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, the Exchange’s senior enlisted adviser. “The focus of the Because of You program for 2016 allows the Exchange to express gratitude for not only the sacrifices of active duty service members, but also military spouses and children.”

The Exchange launched Because of You in 2015, using monthly contests to reward authorized shoppers while saluting the military through themes that honored active duty service members. Last year, the Exchange and vendor partners awarded more than $175,000 in prizes, including Exchange gift cards, trips, Military Star card statement credits and more.

In 2016, the program will continue to honor service members while celebrating the contributions of the military family. Themes will focus on military spouses, children, parents, veterans – and even pets.

The Exchange is planning several contests throughout the year to support the program, with the first contest expected to kick off in April.

“The sacrifices of service members and their families all over the world are inspiring,” Applegate said. “They are true American heroes, and this program is one small way the Exchange can say ‘thank you’ and give back to them. The Exchange looks forward to honoring troops and families throughout the year.”